In an effort to combat a surge in property crimes affecting local businesses, the Albany Police Department (APD) is urging business owners to unite. So far in 2024, there have been already 21 reported burglaries at various Albany businesses. One recent incident involved a smash-and-grab at a Dollar General store on Radium Springs Road, where the suspect stole chips and drinks, leaving behind significant damage.
Customers like Bertha Thomas expressed their disappointment over the incident, while business owners like Sudha Patel of Quick Buys Food Stores are facing the financial burden of repairs. Patel mentioned that her store has been targeted twice in the last three months. In 2023, Albany saw 102 burglaries and 30 robberies, indicating a concerning trend.
Lt. Jon Segroves, who supervises the APD’s property crime unit, has emphasized the importance of taking preventative measures to protect their establishments. He advised business owners to make the remaining items in the store less desirable to potential burglars by making them harder to steal or less valuable. Segroves also recommended using resources like the FUSUS system to combat this year’s crime wave.
As the community works together to address these challenges, Albany residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps, businesses can better protect themselves from property crimes. Follow WALB on social media for the latest updates on this developing situation and other news in South Georgia.